All you need to know about registering to vote
by Voters across Scotland will next go to the polls to elect their MPs at Westminster on Thursday July 4th 2024.
Across Scotland’s 57 constituencies, the MPs you elect will make decisions over matters reserved to the Westminster government and act as Scotland’s voice in Westminster.
Every vote will count – and it’s absolutely vital that you’re registered to vote.
Since the 2019 general election, the Conservatives have introduced draconian voter ID legislation which have been found to disproportionately affect low income and younger voters. It is vital you bring a valid form of ID on polling day or you will not be allowed to vote. Valid ID includes both passports and driving licenses.
Here’s a handy guide.
Who can vote at elections?
At Westminster elections, you must be 14 or over to register, and you can vote if you’re 18 or over on polling day.
For Scottish Parliament and local elections, 16 and 17 year olds are also able to vote. However, they are unable to vote at Westminster general elections.
You must live at an address in Scotland, and you must also be one of the following:
- a UK national
- an Irish national
- any other foreign national with leave to remain in the UK, including refugees
How do I register to vote?
Make sure you’re registered so you don’t lose your voice – click here to check and to register to vote. It only takes around couple of minutes.
You normally only need to register once – not for every election. You’ll need to register again if you’ve changed your name, address or nationality.
Can I register to vote using a paper form?
Registering to vote online is the easiest and quickest way, but you can also register using a paper form.
You’ll need to print, fill out and send the form to your local Electoral Registration Office.
How can I vote by post?
Once you’ve registered to vote, you can also register for a postal vote.
The Electoral Commission will soon launch a tool enabling you to register for a postal vote for the next Westminster election online.
Tell 5 friends and family to register to vote now
At the next election, make sure your voice is heard loud and clear.
Make sure you’re registered to vote — and ask your friends and family to do the same. The SNP will post regularly about registering to vote across its social media accounts; make sure you like, comment and share. This election will be pivotal for Scotland – its vital our voice is heard.
Registering only takes 5 minutes – so if you have time, why not do it now and get it out of the way?
Click here to register, and once you’ve done that, you can register for a postal vote here.